Adoption
Central Ohio FAmily Law Attorney
At Goodrum Law Group, few things bring more joy than helping a child find their forever family. Adoption work is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do—guiding people through a process that changes lives in the best possible way.
At Goodrum Law Group, few things bring more joy than helping a child find their forever family. Adoption work is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do—guiding people through a process that changes lives in the best possible way.
If you already have legal custody of a child through juvenile court, adoption may be the next natural step in making that relationship permanent. Our firm will walk you through the requirements, including the home study process and necessary consents from biological parents.
Adopting a child already in your care is a powerful act of love—and we’ll make sure you’re fully prepared and supported along the way.
Custody Adoption
When a child’s biological parents’ rights have been terminated through juvenile court, foster-to-adopt parents can take the next step toward permanency. Our firm finalizes these adoptions and ensures that all state and county requirements are met.
In most foster care adoption cases, legal fees may be covered by the non-recurring adoption expense program—we’ll make sure you understand what’s available to you.
Foster Care (Public Agency) Adoption
Grandparents often step in to care for grandchildren when parents are unable to do so. We’re proud to help families through this special kind of adoption, ensuring that the process honors both your relationship with the child and the legal standards set by Ohio courts.
Consent from biological parents is typically required, though in certain cases (such as lack of contact or support for over a year) the court may allow adoption without it. We’ll help you understand your options and guide you toward the best path forward for your family.
Grandparent Adoption
Private adoptions often happen when adoptive parents connect directly with a child’s birth parents or when a child is in county or state custody. These cases can move quickly and involve a lot of paperwork and court procedures, so it’s important to have an experienced attorney guiding you early on.
We recommend reaching out as soon as you begin the adoption journey—even before the child is born, if possible—so we can handle the legal details while you focus on preparing to welcome your child home. Once the adoption is finalized, a new birth certificate will be issued with the adoptive parents listed, and all legal rights and responsibilities transfer accordingly.
Our goal is to make this process as smooth as possible, giving you peace of mind so you can focus on what really matters: growing your family.
Private Adoption
When a stepparent takes on the legal role of a parent, it strengthens family bonds in a truly meaningful way. We help families through every step of the stepparent adoption process—from obtaining consent from the biological parent (when required) to finalizing the adoption in court.
After the adoption is complete, the stepparent gains full parental rights, including the ability to make important decisions and provide legal care for the child.
Stepparent Adoption
Even with the best intentions, adoption journeys can face unexpected challenges. Having an experienced attorney ensures the process runs smoothly and that any issues are addressed quickly and effectively.
At Goodrum Law Group, we bring both legal experience and personal understanding to every adoption case. We know how emotional and important this process is—and we’re here to help you through it with care, honesty, and respect.
Adoption Disruption and Legal Support
What types of adoption are available in Ohio?
Adoptions may occur through a stepparent, privately without an agency, through a licensed private agency, or via a public agency. These can involve placements within Ohio, across state lines, or internationally.
Do I need an attorney to adopt a child in Ohio?
Yes. Ohio law requires prospective adoptive parents to retain an attorney in order to finalize the adoption of a minor.
No. An attorney cannot ethically represent both adoptive and biological parents in the same adoption proceeding. Each party must have separate representation to avoid conflicts of interest.
Can one attorney represent both adoptive and biological parents?
While adoptive and biological parents may choose to maintain contact informally, Ohio law does not legally recognize or enforce “open adoption” agreements. Once finalized, adoptive parents hold full parental rights and make all decisions regarding contact with the child.
Does Ohio permit open adoptions?
Sheldon Goodrum
Meet Your Central Ohio Family Law Attorney
We know that when you’re facing divorce, custody disputes, or family conflict, it can feel like your entire life is in limbo. We’re here to guide you through the legal process with care and strategy, protecting what matters most and helping you move forward with peace of mind.
Principal Attorney and Founder
Meet Your
Central Ohio
Family Law Attorney
Principal Attorney & Founder
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